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Giving to charity is one of the most basic things we can do to help others. Follow these tips to be an effective donor.
Give what you can. Consider budgeting a portion of your income to go towards charity; you'll likely be more consistent and will use your money more wisely.
Check out each organization. Make sure any charitable organization you give to actually does what it says it does. Check to see if it is held financially accountable to a third party. How much of your money actually goes to those in need, and how much goes toward administrative costs and such? One online resource is CharityNavigator.org.
Consider carefully. Make sure you have time to think over your gift. Don't give into pressure – whether it is a sob story (lots of emotion does not necessarily deserve a generous donation) or a gift of address stickers in the mail – until you've checked out the charity and made sure it is legitimate and responsible. Ask if the organization is registered with either federal, state, or local authorities.
Keep track of your giving. Write down each charitable donation, even clothing, and be sure to include the details of each transaction. Keep receipts and ask for giving statements from each organization. You'll need this information for tax purposes.
Support faithfully. Once you find good charities to support, you can be comfortable in giving as generously as you can to them.
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